Sopa So'o - Paraguayan Hamburger & Cheese Casserole

Hey there, food adventurers! Get ready to dive into the vibrant, flavorful world of Paraguayan cuisine. Known for its hearty, comforting dishes that often feature cornmeal, meat, and fresh herbs, Paraguayan food is a true celebration of tradition and taste. While you might be familiar with your go-to hamburger and cheese casserole, today we're taking a delicious detour to discover a truly authentic South American gem: Sopa So'o.
Forget everything you think you know about "soup" – Sopa So'o is a thick, substantial, and utterly satisfying ground beef and cornmeal creation that often blurs the line between a soup and a cheesy dinner casserole. It's a beloved staple, packed with seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and the unique texture of cornmeal, making it one of the most delightful meat dishes recipes you'll ever try. Whether you're a seasoned chef looking for new food recipes with meat or a beginner eager to explore global flavors, this definitive recipe for Sopa So'o will guide you through creating a dish that's rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to love. It's truly one of the best oven dishes for a comforting meal, especially if you add a cheesy topping!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups chicken or beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 ½ cups fine cornmeal
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Optional for a true "hamburger and cheese casserole" feel: 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for topping.

Directions

1. Prepare the Meat : Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until thoroughly browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper during this step.
2. Add Vegetables : Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften slightly.
3. Create the Base : Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4. Simmer : Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, a little at a time, to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture will thicken considerably, similar to a very thick porridge or a soft polenta.
5. Season : Stir in the fresh parsley and dried oregano. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to deepen.
6. Serve : Ladle the hearty Sopa So'o into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley. If you're going for that classic cheesy dinner recipe vibe, sprinkle with your optional shredded cheese right after ladling, and let it melt slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish!